Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Experts from New Zealand to conduct study on eco-tourism in Sarawak


KUCHING: The state has engaged New Zealand eco-tourism experts to do a comprehensive feasibility study on its tourism sector, particularly in eco-tourism.

The study will cover areas from the Santubong peninsula to Tanjung Datu, including Bako National Park and Wetland Park, and Rambungan to Lundu which has Gunung Gading Park and Tanjung Datu Park.

Minister of Sarawak Tourism Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said these places are easily accessible from Kuching, which made them popular among tourists.

He said the study would include accommodation which must blend with the environment.

“The study, which is costing more than a million ringgit, is now in process and we are giving them a timeline of one year. After that we will know what infrastructure to put in.

“The New Zealanders are good in eco-tourism because in their country, eco-tourism is number one followed by agriculture,” he told reporters after launching the Sarawak Region Community College Convocation Ceremony at the Dewan Kompleks Islam Baitumal here yesterday.

The Department of Community Colleges Education Ministry director-general Amir Md Noor was also present.

In addition, Abang Johari said, the study will also cover Bakun lake which has about 43,000 species of plants including wild orchids.

“When I went to Bakun, I felt that there must be a certain zoning where people are allowed to do angling.

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